Hello All, I was looking to upgrade to a new (preferably 4 core) aluminum radiator. I have heard good things about Champion but in looking up what they had for a 1964 vehicle, there was a notice stating that their 64 radiator doesn't fit LeSabre, Riviera, Electra or Invicta..... Does anyone have experience with or know of a good upgrade option for a 1964 Buick LeSabre? (I have a 1970 Buick 350 engine under the hood) Any leads would be greatly appreciated! -David
When going for an aluminum radiator you DON'T WANT 3/4 rows ONLY 2 ROWS with 1" or 1 1/4" tubes. Some even can be gotten with 1 1/2"tubes BUT is not nec. for your 350.
I agree, 3-4 rows block too much air trying to get through the core. 1" or 1 1/4" is plenty. I cool my 455 in my 1985 GMC with a 2 row and it is SOOO much better than the old 4 core brass. Never overheat anymore, and BTW that '85 is in a 1 ton tilt-rollback hauling my GSX so plenty of weight too.
I just wanted to chime in here - I purchased a Champion alum. radiator for my 64 Wildcat.... Don't remember the model # but it was whatever they list for the car. It fit, but I had to move it all the way to the left of the rad support because the lower radiator hose connection was not at the edge, it was about 3 inches in from the edge, so it was hitting the bracket that holds the rad at that corner.. So just beware you may have the same issue. I'm using a 2-row on a 401 w/o AC. Also, the radiator cap felt pretty cheap so I replaced that as well. No big deal.. just something to be aware of. I'm holding on to my old brass radiator in case I ever find someone in my area I trust to repair it.
Great info and I greatly appreciate it very much. My main concern was finding an upgrade that would help with any overheating as I hope to take my 64 on longer trips out of town. Would a 2 row and a fan set up be something worth investing in?
I'm using the two row with the factory fan with no clutch. I wouldn't hesitate to drive it anywhere. Oh... One other thing with my champion radiator. The transmission cooler lines were not plug and Play. I ended up using about 2 in of rubber hose and a barb fitting to make it work. I don't remember the thread and pitch and size difference but they definitely didn't fit the factory lines.
Awesome! I’ve made enough mistakes along the way.... I appreciate every bit of help that I can get. Thank you!
